Pubdate: Sun, 02 Feb 2003
Source: Halifax Herald (CN NS)
Copyright: 2003 The Halifax Herald Limited
Contact:  http://www.herald.ns.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/180
Author: Laura Langille

DON'T DECRIMINALIZE

In the past, drug laws have been strict, but now the federal government is 
considering decriminalizing marijuana. It will not be legal, but other 
consequences will be given for possession of small amounts, instead of 
someone ending up with a criminal record.

If marijuana is decriminalized, it would create many problems. Young people 
would think it was OK to smoke pot. People will always abuse the substance 
and there will always be addicts; giving a less harsh punishment will not 
fix the problem. Lately, smoking laws have become more strict, which makes 
me wonder how they can be considering something like this. One joint is as 
harmful for you as 10 cigarettes are. It is unhealthy for whoever is 
smoking it and for those around that person.

If marijuana is decriminalized, trafficking will still be illegal, although 
you will be allowed to have possession of 30 grams. I do not think that 30 
grams is considered personal use. If the government decides to 
decriminalize marijuana, it should be a more reasonable amount, such as 
five grams.

This issue was raised in the first place for medical reasons, but I do not 
think it should be decriminalized because of that. Doctors should simply be 
allowed to prescribe it to certain people for medical purposes.

Laura Langille

Tatamagouche
- ---
MAP posted-by: Beth